How Much Is Non-Emergency Medical Transportation in Chicago?
October 21, 2024 · Updated September 29, 2026 | Otse Amorighoye · Founder & CEO, Dream Care Rides | 6 min read
Quick answer
In Chicago, Dream Care Rides charges per one-way leg: ambulatory $50–$60 base + mileage, wheelchair $60–$70 base + mileage, stretcher $350–$400 base + mileage. Mileage is $3.00 per mile after the first 3 miles for ambulatory, $3.50 per mile after the first 3 miles for wheelchair and $6.00 per mile after the first 5 miles for stretcher. Weekend rides add $50 per leg; after-hours, oxygen, stair-chair, bariatric, airport and wait fees are flat per leg, and major holidays add a fee shown before you book.
Last updated · By Otse Amorighoye, Founder & CEO, Dream Care Rides
Introduction
Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) is essential for individuals who need transportation to medical appointments but don't require an ambulance. Whether you're a senior, someone with mobility challenges, or a patient undergoing regular treatments, reliable transportation is crucial to ensuring timely medical care.
Navigating the costs of NEMT in Chicago can be tricky since rates vary by provider, distance, and type of service. However, understanding these costs can help you plan your medical trips better.
Imagine having a dependable service that offers transparent pricing and takes the guesswork out of your NEMT needs. Dream Care Rides provides affordable, consistent pricing, offering flexible subscription plans to accommodate your weekly medical trips.
In this guide, we'll explain NEMT costs, factors that affect pricing, and how Dream Care Rides offers an accessible solution to residents in Olympia Fields and Olympia Fields, IL.
What Are Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) Services?
NEMT services provide transportation for individuals who need to get to medical appointments but don't require emergency care. These services are typically used by seniors, individuals with disabilities, or people undergoing frequent medical treatments such as dialysis, physical therapy, or chemotherapy.
NEMT services are vital for those who face challenges with mobility or do not have access to reliable transportation. They offer a safe and convenient way for people to attend appointments without worry.
NEMT Transportation Rates
NEMT rates vary based on several factors including the type of transportation, distance, and time of service. Here's a breakdown of typical NEMT costs in Chicago:
Typical Rates for NEMT Services
Type of Service | Weekday Rates | Weekend & Off Hours | Holidays |
Ambulatory | $50–$60 | +$50 per leg weekends; +$50–$300 after hours | Fee shown before booking |
Wheelchair | $60–$70 | +$50 per leg weekends; +$50–$300 after hours | Fee shown before booking |
$350–$400 | +$50 per leg weekends; +$100–$300 after hours | Fee shown before booking | |
Mileage Fees | $3.00 / $3.50 / $6.00 per mile (ambulatory / wheelchair / stretcher) after the included miles | Same | Same |
Wait-time Fees | $15 per 15 min after the first 15 free | Same | Same |
Attendant Fees | Shown before you book | Same | Same |
Additional Services
Oxygen: $25
Stairchair Service: $40
Long-Distance Medical Transportation: Rates for 100+ miles are case-by-case.
Types of NEMT Services and Charges (Weekday and Weekend)
NEMT services are tailored to suit different medical transportation needs. Below are the common types of NEMT services and their corresponding charges:
Ambulatory Services
Ambulatory services are for patients who can walk but may need assistance. The base rate for this service is $50 to $60 per trip leg plus $3.00 per mile after the first 3 miles; weekend rides add $50 per leg.
Wheelchair Services
For wheelchair users, specialized vans with ramps or lifts are required. The cost for wheelchair transportation starts at $60–$70 base plus $3.50 per mile after the first 3 miles.
Stretcher Services
Stretcher services are for patients who need to be transported lying down. The base rate for stretcher services is between $350 and $400 one way, plus $6.00 per mile after the first 5 miles.
Bariatric Transport
This service is for individuals who require special equipment due to their weight. Bariatric riders add $30 per leg to an ambulatory or wheelchair ride and $175 per leg to a stretcher ride.
Factors Affecting NEMT Costs in Chicago
Several factors can influence the overall cost of non-emergency medical transportation:
Type of Transportation
The type of transport needed (ambulatory, wheelchair, or stretcher) will affect the price.
Distance
The longer the trip, the higher the cost, as mileage fees apply beyond the base rate.
Level of Assistance
Additional assistance, such as oxygen or an extra attendant, will increase the overall cost.
Time of Service
NEMT services during off-peak hours, weekends, or holidays typically have higher rates.
Regional Pricing
Costs can vary based on location. In urban areas like Chicago, prices are typically higher than in rural areas.
Partner with Dream Care Rides for Affordable NEMT Services
Dream Care Rides offers reliable, around-the-clock NEMT services in the Olympia Fields and Olympia Fields, IL areas. With transparent pricing and flexible weekly subscription plans, we ensure that you get the transportation you need, when you need it, without hidden fees or surprises.
Dream Care Rides Subscription Plans
2 Rides per Week: contact us for current rates for two 10-mile round trips; mileage bills at the standard per-mile rate.
3 Rides per Week: contact us for current rates for three 10-mile round trips, with mileage at the standard per-mile rate.
5 Rides per Week: contact us for current rates for five 10-mile round trips; mileage bills at the standard per-mile rate.
Coverage Area: Available in Olympia Fields and Olympia Fields, IL.
Booking: Trips must be booked 24 hours in advance, and the medical center must be within 10 miles of the pickup location.
FAQs
What’s the average cost of NEMT in Chicago?
At Dream Care Rides, base rates run $50–$60 ambulatory, $60–$70 wheelchair and $350–$400 stretcher per trip leg, plus mileage.
Does Medicare cover NEMT?
Original Medicare does not cover rides to routine appointments; it covers ambulance transport only when medically necessary. Some Medicare Advantage plans and Medicaid include ride benefits.
What types of vehicles are used for NEMT?
Dream Care Rides uses sedans, wheelchair-accessible vans, and stretcher vans to meet the needs of different patients.
How far in advance should I book a ride?
Book at least 24 hours ahead when you can, and earlier for recurring rides; same-day rides depend on driver availability.
How can I reduce my NEMT costs?
You can save on NEMT costs by scheduling in advance, comparing providers, and using public programs such as Medicaid if you qualify.
How much does wheelchair transportation cost in Chicago?
Dream Care Rides charges $60–$70 base plus $3.50 per mile after the first 3 miles for wheelchair van rides in Chicago, per one-way leg. A round trip is two legs. Call (708) 505-6994 for an exact price.
Are there extra fees for weekends or after-hours rides?
Yes, flat per leg: weekends add $50, and pickups outside 7 AM–6 PM: 6–8 PM +$100 · 8 PM–4 AM +$300 · 4–6 AM +$100 · 6–7 AM +$50 (stretcher +$100). Major holidays add a fee that is shown before you book.
Conclusion
Navigating NEMT costs in Chicago doesn't have to be overwhelming. With Dream Care Rides' transparent pricing, flexible subscription plans, and excellent customer service, you can enjoy confidence and reliability knowing that your medical transportation is in reliable hands. Whether you need two rides per week or five, Dream Care Rides offers affordable solutions designed for your situation.
Ready to book your next ride? Call us at +1 (866) 507-5724, +1 (708) 505-6994 or visit Dream Care Rides.com to schedule your ride today!Related Articles
Need Medical Transportation?
Call us directly or book online. Upfront pricing, no hidden fees.
Need Medical Transportation?
Call us directly or book online. Upfront pricing, no hidden fees.
Founder & CEO, Dream Care Rides
Licensed NEMT provider headquartered in Olympia Fields, IL.